Tech

This 3D Printer for Kids Brings Toy-Printing to the Home

The toy industry loves to emulate the major tech trends captivating the adult world, so it's only natural that there's now a 3D printer in the works for kids.

Santa Barbara, Calif.-based Mission Street Manufacturing has created a 3D printer marketed toward grade school children. Called the Printeer, the ins and outs of the printer can be learned in about 30 seconds, without having to know computer-aided design. Its mission is to make 3D printing accessible to kids and allow them to express themselves creatively with the help of emerging technology.

The company is currently looking for crowdfunding on its Kickstarter page, which is already halfway to its $50,000 fundraising goal. Backers who pledge $499 will be among the first to receive a printer when it ships in October 2014. Typical 3D printers cost far more (up to $2000) than the Printeer and unlike others, it uses an iPad instead of a traditional desktop setup to move along the process.

Printeer's components are color-coded to allow children to see how each functions and doesn't require users to know designing software. The company hopes to bring the product to schools, community centers and even the home.

It's common for toy manufacturers to build off of the hottest tech trends. In addition to kid tablets, there's already a smartwatch for kids.

Weird and Quirky at Toy Fair 2014

1. Uncle Milton Anteater Bug Vacuum

Suck up bugs and watch them squirm in this anteater's removable belly observation chamber. When you're done, safely release them back into nature.

2. HEXBUG AquaBot

These robotic fish provide kids with the experience of having a pet, without the full responsibility.

3. Once Upon a Zombie

Classic princesses such as Cinderella and Snow White get the zombie treatment.

4. Uncle Milton Fireworks Light Show

Kids can run their own fireworks light show. With the pull of a trigger, this toy projects images of colorful fireworks the wall, accompanied by audible bangs and whistles.

5. Uncle Milton Chameleon Vision Goggles

These goggles let you to see in different directions and even whats behind you, simulating the likeliness of a chameleon.

6. ThinkGeek Meat

ThinkGeek is offering delicious Unicorn and Dragon meat. Okay, for real: you can't eat this. It's a dismembered stuffed unicorn in a can.

7. 3Doodler

This 3D printing pen uses the same plastic material used by many 3D printers. It lets you draw in the air and requires no software.

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